Computer server heat regulation utilizing integrated precision air flow

ABSTRACT

The present invention includes a server system that uses an airflow source that can be external to the computer that the airflow source cools. The computer may be sealed such that the conduits are the primary source of fluid ingress and egress. The airflow source can be positioned in a case of the computer, support members affixing the computer to a rack stand, the rack stand, or beyond conduit that conducts fluid to the rack stand.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure relates to a computer server rack and moreparticularly, a computer server rack system that can be used toefficiently direct air flow to electric equipment such as servers andother network devices for dissipation of heat.

BACKGROUND

Existing rack-mount server systems include a server rack and a pluralityof server units received in the server rack. Typically each of theserver units is mounted to the server rack with a pair of mountingbrackets or rails respectively fixed to the inside surface of oppositesidewalls of a server rack. There have been numerous efforts to directair and other fluids to electronic equipment to aid in heat dissipation.

SUMMARY

The server rack according to the invention includes a frame thatincludes hollow tubular support posts on the front sides and rear sidesof the device. Between the front and rear posts are forward side panelsand rearward side panels. The panels receive a complement of cartridgesthat have valve members to control the flow of air from a rear cavitythough passages in the cartridges, through the rail and into servers. Aplurality of side rails for receiving servers are attached to the frontand rear posts. The rails have passages through the sidewalls thatcorrespond with passages provided on the sidewalls of the servers.

In a preferred embodiment, air conditioned air is introduced to forwardside panels through passages provided on the upper and lower surfaces.Next, air travels from the forward panel, though one or more passagesthat is provided through a cartridge member, and then, into a frontsection of a server through a passage that is provided on the lateralsidewall of the server. Air travels through the server from the frontsection of the server to a rear section and then exits through a passagein the lateral sidewall to a cartridge that is provided in a rear panel.Next the air is returned to the air conditioner unit for recirculation.

In an embodiment the sever rack is approximately 6 feet tall anddesigned to accommodate forty-two server units in 4.445 cm (1.75 inch)increments. Rail members are provided at each unit segment on the sidepanels and support a server. In embodiments further discussed below,passages through the cartridges have at least one valve member that canbe individually electromechanically or manually controlled. When noserver is provided in a specific rack unit, or when the temperature isotherwise adequately controlled in a particular server unit, theaperture may be closed. In embodiments, a controller automatically opensor closes valve members provide in cartridges in response to a signalfrom a thermometer.

As such, it should be appreciated that the valves or passages can beopened and closed variably for each server depending on the coolingneeds for the server. Further, as discussed herein, the degree of airflow through the aperture can be controlled using a damper or weirarrangement. Therefore, in embodiments, a local controller is providedand can receive input information from thermometers reading thetemperatures of the servers and can adjust the opening and closing valveapertures accordingly. Alternatively the dampers may be manuallyadjusted. In yet further embodiments a central controller receivessignals from a plurality of server racks.

Each of the openings on the post is provided with a releasable seal toblock flow depending on the particular configuration of servers. Inembodiments, flexible manifolds extend from the posts to direct thefluid to and from access areas provided on the servers. While thepreferred embodiment contemplates the use of air flow, in embodimentsthe frame is configured to receive a liquid and the posts and manifolddirect fluid to heat exchange elements that engaged the respectiveservers.

In yet further embodiments the rack is configured to allow both liquidflow and air flow.

These aspects of the invention are not meant to be exclusive.Furthermore, some features may apply to certain versions of theinvention, but not others. Other features, aspects, and advantages ofthe present invention will be readily apparent to those of ordinaryskill in the art when read in conjunction with the followingdescription, and accompanying drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a prior art server rack and side panel.

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of a partial rack assembly according to anembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 2B is a perspective view of two side panels of a partial rackassembly according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 3 is a perspective exploded view of a first rail assembly, a serverand a second rail assembly according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 4A is a top exploded view of a first rail assembly, a server and asecond rail assembly according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 4B is a top view of a first rail assembly, a server and a secondrail assembly attached together according to an embodiment of theinvention.

FIG. 5 is a perspective exploded view of a side panel and server inalignment before assembly according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a side panel and server attached to oneanother.

FIG. 7 is a perspective exploded view of side panel rails, a server anda second panel according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of side panel rails, a server and a secondpanel according to embodiment of FIG. 7 that has been assembled.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a rack assembly including side panels,rails, and a server that schematically illustrates a server sliding intothe assembly.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a side panel, rails, a server and asecond panel that further includes cartridges received in the forwardand rearward side panels that illustrate a server sliding into theassembly.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the embodiment depicted in FIG. 10 witha server secured within the device.

FIG. 12 is a perspective illustration of an embodiment of the inventionthat includes a schematic representation of the direction of air flowfrom the forward panels to a server.

FIG. 13 is a perspective illustration of an embodiment of the inventionthat includes a schematic representation of the direction of air flowfrom a server through rearward side panels.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of a rail assembly that is used connectionwith an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 15 is a top view of the rail assembly that is shown in FIG. 14 .

FIG. 16 is a perspective view in elevation of the rail assembly with thefront section extended from the rear section that is shown in FIG. 14 .

FIG. 17 is a top view of the rail assembly with the front sectionextended from the rear section.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a forward side panel and forward postaccording to an embodiment of the invention depicting the top surface ofthe panel.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a forward side panel and forward postshown in FIG. 18 depicting the bottom surface of the panel.

FIG. 20 is a top view of the forward side panel and forward post shownin FIG. 18 .

FIG. 21 is a top sectional view of the forward side panel and forwardpost shown in FIG. 18 also depicting a cartridge and the manner in whichit is received in the panel.

FIG. 22 is a top sectional view of the forward side panel and forwardpost shown in FIG. 18 with a cartridge retained in the panel.

FIG. 23 is a front view in elevation of a post member used in connectionwith the invention.

FIG. 24 is a fragmented view in elevation of a forward side panel, aseries of cartridges, a cover plate and a forward post according to anembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 25 is a front view in elevation of a forward panel having acomplete complement of cartridges.

FIG. 26 is a perspective view of a rearward side panel depicting the topsurface.

FIG. 27 is a perspective view of a rearward side panel depicting thelower surface.

FIG. 28 is a top view of an iris air flow control valve used in acartridge according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 29 is a side view of an iris valve used in a cartridge according toan embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 30A is a perspective view of an iris valve used in a cartridgeaccording to an embodiment of the invention in a closed position.

FIG. 30B is a perspective view of an iris valve used in a cartridgeaccording to an embodiment of the invention in a partial openedposition.

FIG. 30C is a perspective view of an iris valve used in a cartridgeaccording to an embodiment of the invention in a fully opened position.

FIG. 31 is a side fractional view in elevation of a cartridge assemblywith the valves partially opened.

FIG. 32 is a side fractional view in elevation of a cartridge assemblywith the valves fully opened.

FIG. 33 is a side sectional fractional view in elevation of a cartridgeassembly.

FIG. 34A is a side sectional fractional view of a cartridge according toan embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 34B is a side sectional fractional view of a cartridge according toa further embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 35 is a perspective partial view of a cartridge according to anembodiment of the invention.

FIG. 36 is a perspective partial view of a cartridge according to anembodiment of the invention depicting a central channel impeded by ablock member.

FIG. 37 is a perspective partial view of a cartridge according to afurther embodiment of the invention with a central channel that ispartially impeded by an adjustable shutter and that schematicallydepicts air flow through the device.

FIG. 38 is a perspective partial view of a cartridge according to theembodiment depicted in FIG. 36 that schematically depicts air flowthrough the device.

FIG. 39 is a perspective partial view of an alternative cartridgeaccording to a further embodiment of the invention with iris valves inpartially open position that schematically depicts air flow through thedevice.

FIG. 40 is a perspective partial view of a cartridge according to theembodiment depicted in FIG. 39 with iris valves in fully open positionand that schematically depicts air flow through the device.

FIG. 41 is a perspective fractional front view of side panel members andservers that schematically depicts air flow through the device.

FIG. 42 is a perspective fractional rear view of side panel members andservers that schematically depicts air flow through the device.

FIG. 43AA is a perspective partial view of a cartridge according to afurther embodiment of the invention with a series of circular passages.

FIG. 43A is a side sectional view of the cartridge embodiment depictedin FIG. 43 without the top seal member.

FIG. 43B is a sectional view of a forward panel, a cartridge rail andserver that illustrates the direction of airflow through the elements.

FIG. 43C is a sectional view of a forward panel, a cartridge, a rail andserver that illustrates the direction of airflow through the elementsaccording to a further embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 43D is a sectional view of a rearward panel, a cartridge, a railand server that illustrates the direction of airflow through theelements according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 44 is a perspective partial view of a cartridge according to theembodiment of 43 with the passages obstructed.

FIG. 45 is a perspective fractional view of a forward side paneldepicting a plurality of different cartridges.

FIG. 46 is a perspective view of a forward side panel depicting aplurality of different cartridges.

FIG. 47 is a perspective view of a forward side panel in an alternativeembodiment depicting a plurality of different cartridges.

FIG. 48 is a perspective view of a forward side panel depicting aplurality of different cartridges that are all devoid of passages.

FIG. 49 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the rack according tothe invention with a full complement of servers.

FIG. 50 is a perspective exploded view of an embodiment of the rack ofthe invention and depicting external paneling.

FIG. 51 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the inventiondepicting a controller and external paneling.

FIG. 52 is a perspective fractional top view of an embodiment of theinvention with an air conditioner and air pump system with a schematicrepresentation of an air flow system.

FIG. 53 is a perspective fractional bottom view of an embodiment of theinvention with a schematic representation of an air flow system with anair conditioner and air pump system.

FIG. 54 is a perspective fractional front view of an embodiment of theinvention wherein air is delivered from the side panel cartridge to thefront of a server using a flexible hose.

FIG. 55 is a top view of the embodiment depicted in FIG. 54 .

FIG. 56 is a perspective fractional front view of an embodiment of theinvention wherein air is delivered from the side panel cartridge to anopening in the top of a server using a flexible hose.

FIG. 57 is a top view of the embodiment depicted in FIG. 54 .

FIG. 58 is a perspective fractional front view of an embodiment of theinvention wherein air is delivered from the rear of a server to a rearcartridge using a flexible hose.

FIG. 59 is a top view of the embodiment depicted in FIG. 58 .

FIG. 60 is a perspective view of a further embodiment that uses twoservers in a single rack unit and an alternative air flow configuration.

FIG. 61 is a perspective view of a plurality of blade servers accordingto prior art.

FIG. 62 is a perspective view of an alternative arrangement of bladeservers according to the prior art.

FIG. 63 is a front perspective fractional view of a chassis containing anumber of blade servers according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 64 is a front perspective fractional view of a chassis containing anumber of blade servers in multiple rows.

FIG. 65 is a front fractional view of a chassis containing a number ofblade servers according to an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 66 is a front perspective fractional view of a chassis containing anumber of blade servers in multiple rows according to an embodiment ofthe invention.

FIG. 67 is a schematic illustration of a system used according inconnection with a data center.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The forgoing description, including the accompanying drawings, isillustrated by way of example and is not to be construed as limitationswith respect to the invention. Now referring to FIG. 1 , a prior artrack system is depicted that includes upright members and side membersand is configured to receive a plurality of servers.

FIGS. 2A and 2B depicts aspects of an embodiment of the invention 200including forward side panel 204 and 202 and rearward side panels 201and 203. As best seen in FIG. 2B the side panels have respectivecavities 210, 212 on their inner sides. The opposite side panels may beattached together by a rear member or rear panel or other transversemembers that spans the opposite sidewalls of the device.

Now referring to FIG. 3 , a further feature of embodiments of theinvention 300 includes use of a rail member 307 which is configured tobe attached to server 305. On the opposite side of the server is rail309 which includes passages 315 and 322 which correspond with adjacentpassages such as front passages 310 and rear passages 320 that arelocated on each lateral sidewall 312, 340 of the server 305.

FIGS. 4 a and 4 b illustrates how rails 307, 309 engage server 305 usingfasteners 410 on one side and on the opposite side. FIG. 4 b depicts therails attached to the server 305.

FIG. 5 shows a plurality of rails 307 that are secured to lateral panels505. These rails are configured to engage server 305.

FIG. 6 depicts the side panel 505 wherein server 305 is engaged with thepanel at the top rail.

FIG. 7 depicts an exploded view of the assembly of rack assemblycomponents including side panel 505, rails 307,309 and opposite sidepanel 702.

FIG. 8 is an embodiment of the invention holding server 305 betweenpanels 505 and 702. Server 305 slides along rails 307,309 which areaffixed to the side panel sections 505, 702.

FIG. 9 depicts how the server 305 slides in to the rack system from thefront along the opposite rails 307 and 309 attached to panels 505 and702 in an embodiment of the invention.

FIG. 10 depicts assembly of the present invention 1000 that includes adepiction of the air passages 1010, 1011, 1015, and 1020 in the lateralside panels. In this embodiment there are a plurality of cartridgesprovided in the side panels such as cartridges 1025, 1028, 1030. Aserver is received in the rack member by sliding it in the directionillustrated along the opposite rails.

FIG. 11 depicts the rack assembly invention 1000 including server 305 inengagement with the rails in position along with the upright members2482. The panel depicts a series of cartridges attached and connected tothe panel wherein the cartridges are designed to control the flow of airfrom the panel to the servers.

FIGS. 12-13 illustrate the airflow though the rack of the invention.Incoming airflow 1220 enters the left and right side panel sections1210, 1215 through passages that are provided on the top and bottomsurface and passes from the front of the panel, through cartridges,through rails and into a server. Air from the servers 305 passesrearward and out passages into the sidewalls of the rails back to rearpanel sections 1211, 1216. Outgoing air 1224 passes from the throughpassages provided on the top and bottom of the panels.

Now referring to FIGS. 14-17 , a two part rail member 307,308 isdepicted that includes passages 315 to allow for air flow and arelocated at the front of rail member 307,308 and passages 322 near theopposite end when the two part rail member 307, 308 is in a retractedposition. The two parts of the rail slide along one another to allow therail to extend, such as that used in a conventional drawer. Inembodiments the rails may include bearing and roller elements. Each endof rail 308 has attachment sections 1480 and 1481 that are orientedperpendicular to the length of the rail element and includes fasteningmeans to engage the upright members. The rail includes fastener elements410 that engage the server. FIG. 15 , a top view of the rail 307,308,depicts the fastening members 410. As seen in FIG. 16 , the passages315, 322 allow air flow though the rail. FIG. 17 depicts a rail with theforward member fully extended.

FIG. 18 depicts panel section 1210 that includes a front hollow uprightmember 2482 and rear upright member 2675 that frame side panel section1210. Top surface 1828 of panel section 1210 includes passages 1010 thatallows airflow into the panel member. Along the inside surface of panelare a series of electrical contact pins 1840 that are designed toreceive the cartridge members in the recessed region 1820.

FIG. 19 depicts panel 1210 illustrating the bottom surface 1905 thatincludes a services of passages such as passages 1910 that allow airflow into the panel. In embodiments, interior horizontal surface 1980 ofthe panel is provided with an elastomeric material on the surface whichcan engage opposite surfaces of the cartridge and establish an air tightseal. Vertical surface 1940 has a series of contact pins 1840 that canestablish an electrical connection with the cartridge members. Likesurface 1980, in embodiments, the surface 1940 panel is provided with anelastomeric material on the surface which can engage opposite surfacesof the cartridge and establish an air tight seal.

FIG. 20 is a top view of panel section 1210 showing openings 1010through top surface 1828. The openings provide an entrance for air flowto a section of the panel member.

FIGS. 21 and 22 are top sectional view of panel 1210 that shows howcartridge is received in the panel. In this regard, the cartridge 2166is retained in place by pins 1310 and 1840 which engage upright members2168, 2169 located in the lateral panel where there is an upright membercavity. The assembly creates a void 2159 behind the cartridge. FIG. 22depicts a top section view of the engagement of the cartridge with aside panel member 1210.

FIGS. 23 and 24 includes a side view of a series of different cartridges2410, 2412, 2414, that have passages through their respective lateralsides that are at different locations. The cartridges are designed tocomplement different servers that may be used in the rack system.Cartridge 2414 is depicted in engagement with side panel member 1210. Itis in electrical connection to a central bus 2455 by control wire 2450that is routed through a cavity in the side portion of panel 1210. Thecavity within the side panel is covered by plate 2420 or plate 2425.FIG. 23 is a front view of member 2482 and surface 2302 depicts holesprovided for attachment of the rails members. Flange section 2480 andaperture 2485 is provided for attachment to the supporting frame for therack system.

FIG. 25 depicts a side view of an exemplary panel 1210 containing aplurality of cartridges, such as cartridges 2166. In addition, FIG. 25depicts an alternative configuration of cover plates.

FIG. 26 depicts a rearward side panel 1211 designed to be used in therack system of the invention. Like the front panel, rearward panel 1211includes a series of vertical passages 1011 though top surface 1828 ofpanel 1211. The passages terminate in the recess region 2608 defined byupright members 2482 and horizontal members 2635 and 2636 and rear flatsection 2618. The panel 1211 is attached to the supporting frame for therack using flange member 2675. At the rear of the section, upright postmembers 2630, 2631 provides additional structural support for the panel.As shown in FIG. 27 , panel 1211 also includes passages through thelower member 2635 such as passage 2620. A series of connector pins 1840is provided on upright member 2631 for engagement to the cartridges.

Now referring to FIGS. 28-30C an exemplary iris control valve 2800 isshown. The valve includes movable panel 2804 that can be opened andclosed to define different sized openings that are retained by anannular ring 2802.

FIGS. 31 and 32 depict cartridge assembly 2166 that includes a controlswitch 4380 which can be used to slide the pin members into or out ofthe panel to lock the cartridges into place. In embodiments, a controlvalve is manually manipulated to selectively open and close the valves2800. In further contemplated embodiments, valves may be opened andclosed using a sliding planar sheet that covers the passage. In yetfurther embodiment the cartridge may use a motorized screw gear that maybe controlled by a rotating handle at the top of the panel attached toan extended threaded rod and the rotational movement of the rod istranslated to rectilinear motion. In yet a further embodiment thecartridge may use a servo-motor that may be connected to the iris valveselector arm by a connecting rod. In embodiments, on the ends of thecartridge are spring biased contact pins such as pin 1310 that isdesigned to engage the lateral interior side surfaces of forward orrearward panel members. As seen in FIG. 33 , sensor 1319 is designed todetect the presence of an adjacent server. In an embodiment, the sensorincludes is an infrared light 1320 and photo detector 1365 wherein lightis reflected from a reflective surface provided on the server can bedetected. When the server is present opposite the detector infraredlight is reflected off of a surface on the server and impinges on thephoto detector. The photo detector then sends a signal via wire 1371 tocontroller 1348 which in turn can provide a signal to open the valves,such as valve 2800, on the cartridge opposite the sever and allow air toflow.

In yet further contemplated embodiments the sensor can communicate withthe server transmitted by the server, such as a signal containinginformation relating to the internal temperature of the servercomponents. This signal is transmitted to the controller and may befurther related to the processor associated with a server rack. Theserver rack processor received data from the various servers and thestatus of the valves that are associated with the cartridges. Asdiscussed below the processor may be configured to communicate with aremote computer that may include a display that allows for remotemonitoring and control by an administrator and alerts that provideinformation that relates to the status of the respective servers. Suchcommunication may employ an Ethernet connection, USB connection, othercabling, or using wireless technology.

As best seen in FIG. 33 , pin 1310 is also connected to the controller1348 which can bring power and control signals from an external source.Contact member 1340 is on the opposite end of the cartridge 2166 frompin 1310. Contact member 1340 engages its adjacent side panel in orderto complete a power circuit. The contact surfaces along the side surfaceand top interior surfaces are made of an elastomeric material and, whenthe cartridges are in an engaged position with the panel, an air tightseal is established wherein a cavity formed in the panel behind thecartridges can be pressurized.

Controller 1348 is attached to valves 2800. In an embodiment, sensor1319 includes an infrared light source and photo detector and will senda signal to the controller 1348 reflecting the presence of absence of aserver opposite the sensor. If a server is present, the valves will beopened. If no server is detected opposite the sensor, the valves remainclosed.

Now referring to FIGS. 34A-34B, cartridge 2166 is shown opposite sidemembers 2168 and 2169. FIG. 34B depicts a further embodiment wherein thecartridge 2166 includes a reservoir 3412 (not shown to scale) whichcontains an inert gas under pressure that can be used for firesuppression. Reservoir 3412 is connected to a valve 3414 by tubularpassage 3413. Valve 3414 controls the regulation of the inert gas intoone of the passageways through cartridge 2166. Valve 3414 is controlledby controller 3401 and, in embodiments, a temperature control sensor incommunication with the central controller can send a signal indicativeof temperature. The central controller is programmed to send a signal tolocal controller 3401 over wire 3415 when the temperature within aserver has rapidly increased thereby reflecting a possible fire event.

FIG. 35 depicts air flow through an exemplary cartridge 2166 thatincludes valves 2800 in a partially-opened position.

As shown in FIG. 36 an alternative embodiment of the cartridge 2166depicts cavity 3608 that may receive removable insert 3610 thatfunctions to block airflow through the cartridge.

In a further embodiment, depicted in FIGS. 37 and 38 and cartridge 2166,a movable flap, e.g. a shutter 3709, is provided to regulate air flow.As depicted the shutter 3709 is mounted for pivotal movement and onlyallows flow through gap 3707. In embodiments shutter is 3709 isincrementally opened using a stepper motor that can incrementally adjustthe position of the shutter and correspondingly incrementally adjust thesize of the opening. In other embodiments the shutter can be manuallyadjusted. It is contemplated that this cartridge design may be used witha server that has corresponding rectangular passages on the lateralsidewall (not shown). Referring to FIG. 38 , the shutter is depicted ina fully opened position and the gap or opening is defined by space 3809.In this position the air flow through the cartridge is maximized.

FIG. 39 illustrates a fractional view of a cartridge 2166 having aseries of valves 2800 in a partially open position and depicts thedirection of airflow through the valves. FIG. 40 depicts valves 2800 ina fully open position wherein the air flow is increased.

FIG. 41 is a sectional view of a front section of a rack system 1000 andserver 305 depicting air flow first into the panel cavity section 1820of panel 1210 from both the lower and upper directions. Air flows intopassage 4120, through a rail section (not shown) and into server 305.Another flow path that is illustrated travels from the panel cavity 1820through passage 4120 that is provided through cartridge 2166. Airintroduced in the front of servers 305 cools components within theservers and flows rearward.

As shown in FIG. 42 , air flows from the front of server 305 passesthrough passage 4125 that is provided though cartridge 2166 and intopanel cavity section 2608 of panels 1211 and 1216. From the rear cavity2608 the air flows either upwardly or downwardly to the passages in thetop and bottom of the rearward side panel section.

FIG. 43AA depicts an embodiment of a cartridge member 2166 having aplurality of passages 4120 depicted in an open position. In thisembodiment there is a sealing member 4370 received in a groove 4325provided along the top surface of the cartridge member 2166. Sealingmember 4370 designed to engage the bottom surface of an adjacentcartridge or a top horizontal member of a panel and form an air tightseal. Sealing member 4370 can be raised and lowered via a mechanicalconnection with member 4380. When member 4380 is in the retractedposition, pins 1310 will be retracted along with seal 4370 beinglowered. When member 4380 is in the engaged position, pins 1310 will bemoved forward and seal 4370 will be in the raised position. The bottomof the cartridge is also provided with a lower groove 4335 that can bereceived the top of a cartridge positioned under cartridge 4300. In thisembodiment a flat blocking member 4330 is provided within the cartridge2166 which can be controlled by engagement of member 4345 to laterallyslide the member to block the passages and thereby impede the flow ofair through the cartridge. In this embodiment pins 1310 are springbiased and can be retracted by sliding control lever 4380 in a lateraldirection. Upon release of the lever, the pins may be received inopposite openings provided on the side panel members to retain thecartridge members in place.

In FIG. 43A, blocking member 4330 is depicted retained within oppositegrooves 4351 and 4352 provided in the interior top surface 4371 andbottom interior surface 4372 of the cartridge 2166 and engaged to allowfor movement within the grooves.

FIG. 43B depicts a sectional view of rack assembly invention 1000. Voidregion 2159 is defined between a cartridge assembly 2166 and planarsheet member of panel section 1210 through which air flows into the rearof cartridge 2166. The cartridge includes a top sealing member 4370 thatis comprised of a resilient material which is provided to assist withforming a seal with an adjacent cartridge. The air flow is interfered bymember 4330 which will slide to open and close a passage 4120 thatallows air flow to server 305. The rail member is depicted as two partmember 307 and 308 through which is provided with a passage to allow forair flow from cartridge 2166 to server 305.

FIG. 43C depicts a further embodiment that include annular seal ringmember 4398. In this embodiment an annular fabric shroud 4399 willaxially extend from the annular ring 4398 provided at the junction ofair passages and, in response to air flow, shroud 4399 is radiallydisplaced to seal the junction between the components. As such when airflows, the shroud fills the gap between the cartridge 2166, rail members307 and 308, and server 305.

FIG. 43D schematically depicts air flow from server 305 to a rear panel.Like the embodiment depicted in FIG. 43C, the embodiment includesannular seal member 4388 and shroud member 4389 that, in response to airflow is displaced to minimize the air loss through the interface betweenserver 305, rail members 307 and 308 and cartridge 2166.

FIG. 44 depicts cartridge 2166 wherein the blocking member 4330 has beenmoved to close the passages 4120 and the pins 1310 are depicted in aretracted position. In embodiments, the seal is mechanically lifted byrotation of a cam member that alternatively lowers and raises a sealmember such as seal member 4370. In yet alternative embodiments, theresilient seal member 4370 is spring biased and can be displaceddownwardly upon assembly. In yet further embodiments, a mechanicalswitch is provided that lifts and mechanically locks the resilientmember by lateral movement of a switch extension that is accessiblethrough an L shaped opening.

FIG. 45 illustrates a side panel assembly 1210 including a plurality ofcartridges such as cartridges 2166 that span upright member 2630 andupright member 2631. The rear surface of the cartridges define a frontsurface of an internal cavity of the panel. Adjacent to upright member2630 is an upright front post member 2482 that is provided to supportthe servers and rails of the device.

FIG. 46 depicts a completely assembled forward panel including uprightfront post upright member 2482, section and cartridges such as 2166placed between the section vertical supports 2630, 2631.

FIG. 47 depicts an alternative assembly that includes a number ofcartridges 4720 that are devoid of valves and passages.

FIG. 48 depicts a further alternative assembly where the cartridges thatwere selected include no valves or passages. Thus FIGS. 47 and 48illustrate alternative configurations of cartridges 2166 and blanks 4720that may be used with the invention.

As best seen in FIG. 47 , the cartridges may have different verticaldimensions to conform the vertical dimension of a server. In addition,in embodiments cartridges may have different lateral placement of theiris valves and passages to conform to the needs of differing serversand network equipment.

FIG. 49 depicts a server assembly 1000 with a full complement of singlerack unit servers 305.

As shown in FIG. 50 , the server rack assembly and servers areoptionally enclosed in a cabinet that includes side exterior panels 5005and 5006, top exterior panel 5025 and bottom exterior panel 5008. All ofthe quarter panels are attached to an intermediate frame to be fullysupported. The entire rack is elevated from a support surface by legs5020 or, alternatively, on casters. The top panel is provided withpassages that allow air to flow to the forward panels 1210, 1215 andrearward panels 1211, 1216 that is contained within exterior panels.Additional passages, not pictured, may be added to exterior panels 5008and 5025 for power, network cables, and other cabling.

Referring now to FIG. 51 , an assembled rack system 1000 includesexterior side panels 5005 and 5006 that contain the side forward panelsand rearward side panels. In embodiments, there are front and rear doorsprovided that can be used to close and lock the whole rack. In furtherembodiments, the panels used are insulated. Again referring to FIG. 51 ,the top of the device includes front top passages 5121 and 5130 thatcommunicate with the forward lateral side panels. Next to the inletpassages 5121 and 5130 are pressure relief valves 5128 and 5131. Whenthe pressure in the system exceeds a predetermined pressure, the valveswill release air to the atmosphere and prevent damage to components ofthe system. Similar pressure relief valves 5138 and 5142 are located inthe rear panel adjacent to rear top passages 5125, 5135. On the top ofthe panel is a controller 5150 that is in communication with thecartridges via wires 5140.

A top view of a building rack device system 1000 is depicted in FIG. 52that includes an air conditioner 5204 that provides cool air to topinlet passages in forward panels through conduits 5220, 5223. Air, afterit has passed through a server, flows to the rearward panels and mayexit through top passages 5125, 5135. Air exiting the panels is thendirected through conduits 5228 and 5229 to pump 5330 that maintainsnegative pressure in the exhaust system and moves the air from theforward panels, through the servers and out to the rearward panels. Airfrom the pump may be transferred back to the air conditioner throughpassages (not shown) for recirculation through the system.

As shown in FIG. 53 the bottom surface 5310 of a rack system 1000receives cool air from air conditioner 5204 from conduits 5325. Air isvented from the system through conduits 5329. A pump 5330 is providedthat creates and maintains negative pressure in the exhaust air flowsystem and may transfer air back through passages (not shown) to the airconditioner.

In embodiments, the system includes a controller and servo motor thatcan adjust the flow parameters depending on the temperature of theserver or group of servers. In further embodiments, the system includesa control board that includes a small circuit board with an Ethernetcommunications port for communication with the servers, a valvecontroller, air conditioner, heat pump, and a remote central monitoringand control location.

Referring now to FIG. 54 , in a further embodiment 1000 air is directedfrom a cartridge member 2166 to openings provided in the front panel5412 of server 305 using flexible tubular conduit members 5122. Thedepiction includes panels 1210, 1211 that receive the cartridges thatare described herein. FIG. 55 depicts a top view of the system describedabove and includes the flexible conduit tubes 5122 that are depictedextending past the front edge 5417 of the server.

In another embodiment of the invention that is depicted in FIG. 56 , airis distributed from cartridge member 2166 through flexible tubularmembers 5122 to openings on the top of a server 305. In this embodiment,server 305 only extends one half the distance of the server rack. FIG.57 , a top view of the embodiment depicted in FIG. 56 , shows conduitsthat extend from the lateral panel 1210 to the top of server 305. Nowreferring to FIG. 58 , a further aspect of the invention is depictedwherein air is removed or vented from the rear of server 305 usingflexible conduit hoses or tubular members to cartridge 2166 in rearpanel 1211. As seen in FIG. 59 , the air is directed from server 305 tothe rear panel section 1211 using tubular members 5122.

FIG. 60 depicts a schematic representation of an alternative air flowarrangement in a further embodiment of the invention 1000. In thisembodiment servers 305 are attached to the same vertical location thatis in turn attached to the front side panel 1210 and rear side panel1211. Also shown are servers 305 that are also attached to the frontside panel opposite 1210 and rear side panel opposite 1211 usingconventional rack mount hardware. Air from cartridges provided in thefront panel 1210 and rear panel 1211 flows laterally into the servers305 and exits the servers through openings such as openings 6025. Theopenings are on the opposite sides of the servers and passages oncartridges (not shown) provided on lateral panels (not shown) that areopposite panels 1210 and 1211 and which receive from the servers anddistribute the air out of the panels.

FIG. 61 is a depiction of prior art blade server system 6100 wherein aplurality of server blades 6121, 6122, 6123, 6124, 6125, 6126, 6127 and6128 are oriented in a vertical direction and contained in an externalhousing 6110. External housing 6110 is designed to be received in serverrack.

FIG. 62 depicts a further alternative wherein an external housing 6120encloses a plurality of servers such as 6221 and 6222. Blade serversystem 6200 includes two rows of vertically oriented servers.

FIG. 63 depicts an embodiment of the invention 1000 adapted to providecool air to and remove air from vertically oriented blade servers. Here,conduit 5122 is connected to a cartridge according to one of theembodiments of the invention discussed above and direct air to anopening provided on the top surface of server 305. Air is removed fromserver 305 using hollow tubular conduit 5122 which is directed air to acartridge provided in rearward lateral panel as described above. FIG. 63therefore depicts a server device in which each of the servers 305 areprovided with air flow to and from the server. These conduits 5122 passthrough the external casing 6340 that retains the servers and thendirect the air laterally.

FIG. 64 depicts a further embodiment 1000 wherein hollow tubular coolingconduits 5122 provide airflow into servers 305. Air is removed from theservers in a similar manner as described with respect to the embodiment1000 depicted herein.

FIG. 65 depicts a blade server arrangement 1000 wherein air isdistributed to servers through openings on their bottom surfaces throughtubular conduits 5122. Air is removed from the servers 305 using tubularconduits 5122 and is directed laterally wherein it can be received bycartridge members as described herein provided on lateral panels.

In a further embodiment 1000 depicted in FIG. 66 , a row of bladeservers 305 includes multiple rows of servers oriented vertically. Airis provided to servers on a lower row using through tubular conduitssuch as 5122. These conduits provide air flow from lateral sides of thedevice 1000 and deliver the air to the bottom surface of severs. Air isremoved from the servers using similar conduits and directed laterally.

In further embodiments (not shown), fans are provided in the cartridgesto assist with air flow to the servers and to assist with the removal ofair from the servers. In yet other embodiments the fans may be providedin connection with the intake openings and exhaust opening in thepanels, or along the conduits that provide for air handling to and fromthe panels.

FIG. 67 is a schematic view of a data center building embodiment 2000wherein a plurality of racks 1000 are positioned in a building structure6701 and exterior 6702 to constitute a server facility or data center.The data center includes a central controller 6730 that may be inproximity to the data center or in remote communication. The systemoptionally includes an air conditioner system that includes conventionalexterior components 6710 such as a compressor, condenser element and afan and interior components 6711 that include fans, evaporator coils,and an expansion device for the coolant used in the system. The systemmay also include heat pump (HP) technology including interior components6721 which may include a blower, an expansion device, and an exteriorcoil and conventional exterior components 6720 including a compressor,check valves, an expansion device, exterior coils and a fan.

In yet further embodiments, a variety of rails members are provided inconnection with the rack systems to receive different server models,wherein the rails have different designs with different passages tocomplement the passages in different servers.

Although the present invention has been described in considerable detailwith reference to certain preferred versions thereof, other versionswould be readily apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art.Therefore, the spirit and scope of the appended claims should not belimited to the description of the preferred versions contained herein.

INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY

The present invention permits the efficient cooling of computerequipment, particularly aggregated computer equipment confined toenclosed spaces. The power use of server farms, co-location facilities,and other data centers that specialize in providing computation andstorage availability are using a sizeable percentage of availableelectricity. Much of this power use is related, not only to operatingthe computer equipment, but also cooling the computer equipment. Thepresent invention represents a substantial advance in the effectivenessof cooling this equipment in way that does not require the substantialmodifications to facilities, and allows a modular and upgradablesolution.

What is claimed is:
 1. A computer cooling system, comprising: a serverrack stand defining an ingress interior void, an airflow outlet passagedownstream of the ingress interior void and an airflow inlet passage; acomputer adapted to releasably affix within said server rack stand, saidcomputer having a case defining an airflow inlet opening and an airflowoutlet opening each dimensioned to be positioned upon said affixationproximate to said airflow inlet passage and said airflow outlet passage,respectively; at least one server conduit forming a sealed connectionbetween said airflow outlet passage and said airflow inlet opening, andbetween said airflow outlet opening and said airflow inlet passage; anairflow source positioned exterior to said computer positioned to urgeairflow from said airflow outlet passage to said airflow inlet passage;and at least one perforated lateral member adapted to releasably affixto said server rack stand and proximate to said computer, said at leastone perforated lateral member having a member body defining at least oneinternal lateral body channel each having a channel cross-sectionpassing throughout a girth of said member body and that is adapted topermit lateral airflow through said member body, wherein said ingressinterior void to said computer forms a substantially-sealed pathway. 2.The computer cooling system of claim 1, wherein said airflow source ispositioned upstream of said server rack stand.
 3. The computer coolingsystem of claim 1, wherein said airflow source is positioned in said atleast one perforated lateral member.
 4. The computer cooling system ofclaim 3, wherein said airflow source is positioned in said at least oneinternal lateral body channel.
 5. The computer cooling system of claim1, wherein said airflow source positioned in said at least one internallateral body channel.
 6. The computer cooling system of claim 1, furthercomprising at least one building conduit configured to conduct airflowfrom said airflow source to said server rack stand prior to conductingfluid from said server rack stand to said case via said at least oneserver conduit.
 7. A computer cooling system, comprising: a server rackstand defining an egress interior void, an airflow outlet passage, anairflow inlet passage upstream of the egress interior void, and anairflow exhaust passage downstream of the egress interior void; acomputer adapted to releasably affix within said server rack stand, saidcomputer having a case defining an airflow inlet opening and an airflowoutlet opening that is positioned opposite of said airflow inletopening, said airflow inlet opening and said airflow outlet opening eachdimensioned to be positioned upon said affixation proximate to saidairflow outlet passage and said airflow inlet passage, respectively; atleast one server conduit forming a sealed connection between saidairflow outlet passage and said airflow inlet opening, and between saidairflow outlet opening and said airflow exhaust passage; at least oneperforated lateral member adapted to horizontally releasably affix tosaid computer to support said computer upon said server rack stand, saidat least one perforated lateral member having a member body defining atleast one internal lateral body channel each having a channelcross-section passing throughout a girth of said member body and that isadapted to permit a lateral airflow through said member body; at leastone building conduit configured to transmit airflow to said airflowoutlet passage to expose airflow to said case; an airflow sourcepositioned exterior to said case, said airflow source configured to urgeair from said airflow outlet passage to said airflow exhaust passage,wherein said computer to said egress interior void forms asubstantially-sealed pathway.
 8. The computer cooling system of claim 7,wherein said airflow source is positioned upstream of said at least oneperforated lateral member.
 9. The computer cooling system of claim 8,further comprising an obstructer downstream of said airflow source. 10.The computer cooling system of claim 8, wherein said airflow source ispositioned upstream of said server rack stand.
 11. The computer coolingsystem of claim 10, further comprising an obstructer downstream of saidairflow source.